October 3, 2012

The leader of Kansas State University's philanthropic arm is being recognized for his contributions to the field in which he earned his master's and doctoral degrees.

Fred Cholick, KSU Foundation president and CEO, received the Agronomy/Soil and Crop Science Alumni Award for 2012 from Colorado State University. He graduated from the university with a master's and Ph.D. in agronomy, completing his doctorate in 1977.

"It's an honor to be recognized by my alma mater that has done so much to shape my career," Cholick said. "While working on my graduate degrees at Colorado State, I had the opportunity to attend a seminar by Norman F. Borlaug, an agricultural researcher and Nobel Peace Prize winner. This experienced sparked my interest in international agriculture development, specifically in wheat. This interest has been a common thread throughout my career."

After graduation, Cholick worked on a multinational contract with CIMMYT via USAID and Oregon State University. He then spent 10 years teaching and researching at South Dakota State University before serving as head of the department of plant science beginning in 1991. He directed the Agricultural Experiment Station from 1994 to 1998, when he began his role as dean of the College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences.

Cholick began his career at Kansas State University in 2004, when he was named dean of the College of Agriculture and director of K-State Research and Extension. In 2010 he became president and CEO of the KSU Foundation, whose mission is to advance Kansas State University through philanthropy.

"Dr. Cholick's work at Kansas State University, both as a dean and director of extension and president of our foundation, has truly been distinguished," said President Kirk Schulz. "His influence and intellect continue to provide exemplary leadership for a Top 50 public research institution, which we aim to be by 2025. It's rewarding to see his contributions recognized by his alma mater."